Our Students' Voices Are Screaming to Be Heard

Dr. Cory Overstreet • Cahn Fellow 2023

Our Cahn Project focuses on enhancing student voice to help reduce the gap with academic growth. Despite Kellogg’s academic achievements, there's a noticeable disconnect between the rigorous pursuit of academic excellence and the inclusion of student voices in shaping their educational experience as evident through the University of Chicago Student Cultivate Survey. This gap often leaves students feeling unheard and disengaged, as their perspectives and needs may not align with the structured academic focus. It's time we bridge this divide and create a more holistic approach that values academic success and the voices of those we serve. Research shows that relationships are vital to students feeling welcome at a school, which informs their academic success and social emotional growth (CASEL, 2018)

Kellogg was recognized as an ISBE Exemplary school for academic growth and attendance. The University of Chicago Cultivate Survey taken by students in grades 5-8 demonstrated that student voice is a significant area of growth. There was a strong focus on creating a supportive school environment pre-COVID, but we have seen a decrease in how students feel supported since we returned from COVID. Our Cahn Project focuses on increasing student voice and connectedness and wellbeing at Kellogg.